If you’re wondering what to wear on a cruise, you have come to the right place! It can be a little daunting to figure out cruise dress codes, but this guide will surely help.
I’ll never forget the clothes I packed for my first cruise in 1980 aboard Carnival Cruise’s Mardi Gras. I was 17 years old and had my red Samsonite luggage stuffed to the brim with bikinis, shorts, cute tops, flip flops, and the most important thing…evening gowns! That was a “must-have” back in the day for the Captain’s Reception and Dinner.
I had watched the TV series The Love Boat for years and was excited to meet interesting people from around the world. I was well prepared because I had my prom dresses! Ha!
In the years that followed, I went on dozens of other cruises and today, I can say I’m an expert when it comes to packing for a cruise!
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What to Wear on a Cruise
Compared to the 1980s, today’s dress code on cruises is much more casual and typically mimics everyday dress in America; thereby leaning toward what I would classify as “sloppy casual” and dishevelled. I blame COVID-19. During the pandemic, people stayed at home in yoga pants for so long that they forgot how to dress to go out.
Unfortunately, I’ve seen a wide range of inappropriate clothing on cruises. Some examples include women wearing tiny bathing suit tops at the indoor buffet, men wearing tank (wife beater) shirts, college girls donning fuzzy slippers in the dining room, and even people wearing bathrobes to the breakfast buffet.
As cruise lines have begun to address this trend of dressing down too much consequently having to turn people away from restaurants for inappropriate dress, it’s important to clarify exactly what each cruise line requires.
You will find the cruise dress code for Carnival Cruises, Royal Caribbean Cruise Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, MSC Cruise Line, and Virgin Voyages below.
>> Are you packing for your cruise? Check out my post featuring the most creative things to bring on a cruise next for some cool ideas.
Carnival Cruise Lines Dress Requirements
Carnival Cruises communicates on its website that the dress code most evenings is “Cruise Casual.” For women, they recommend long skirts, casual dresses, summer dresses, capris, trousers, elegant shorts, and jeans. For gentlemen, dress pants, jeans, elegant shorts, and polo shirts are encouraged.
They also suggest wearing flat shoes with rubber soles and low heels for women. I don’t like the thought of rubber-soled, flat shoes, but I do understand the reasoning. I was on a Carnival cruise Lido Deck a few years back and had on cute wedge sandals (with a rum drink in my hand) and I actually slipped a bit because of rough seas and banged my head against a metal pole. Ouch.
Some evenings though, elegant apparel (Cruise Elegant) will be more appropriate. If you prefer to stay casual, they want you to go to the Buffet Restaurant on the Lido deck which offers a more relaxed atmosphere. Ladies should dress accordingly: cocktail dresses, pantsuits, elegant skirts, blouses, and evening gowns. For gentlemen, pack choose tuxedos, elegant dress pants, shirts, sports jackets as well as suits and ties. Fashion no-nos include tracksuit trousers, basketball shorts, flip-flops, bathing clothes, or cut-off jeans.
Interestingly, Carnival has at least two self-service launderettes on stateroom decks and offers small boxes of detergent from vending machines. Or, if you wish to get valet laundry service, your Cabin Steward can provide this service.
Daytime Attire
When it comes to cruise daytime attire, the vibe on Carnival Cruise Lines is all about comfort and relaxation. Casual wear is definitely recommended for those sun-soaked days at sea or exploring port towns. Think comfortable jumpsuits, easy-breezy shorts and T-shirts—yes, they’re totally permitted! You want to feel free to move around and enjoy all the activities without worrying about your outfit.
Don’t forget your flip-flops or comfy sandals; they’re perfect for lounging by the pool or strolling along the deck. Layer up with a light jacket if you plan on spending time outside, especially when the sun starts to dip. The key is to keep it simple and fun—after all, you’re on vacation!
Evening Wear
As for evening wear, it’s all about striking that perfect balance between comfort and class when you’re traveling with Carnival Cruise Lines. If you’re planning to dine in the Main Dining Rooms or one of the Specialty Restaurants, a more polished look is definitely recommended. Think collared shirts paired with tailored pants or shorts for the guys, while ladies can opt for chic skirts or elegant dresses—whatever makes you feel fabulous!
As you transition from dinner to enjoying some entertainment in the theater, bars, or lounges, keep in mind that layers are your best friend. A light jacket or sweater can be a lifesaver on those cooler nights or when you’re navigating through the ship’s air-conditioned public areas. So go ahead and elevate your evening style; after all, it’s not just about what you wear but how you carry yourself!
Royal Caribbean Cruise Line Dress Requirements
Royal Caribbean promotes a relaxed and comfortable dress code most evenings, known as “Casual.” For women, they suggest comfortable yet stylish options like long skirts, casual dresses, summer dresses, capris, trousers, and jeans. For men, dress pants, jeans, and polo shirts are recommended.
Footwear should be practical, so flat shoes with rubber soles and low heels for women are ideal for navigating the ship.
On select nights, Royal Caribbean hosts “Formal Nights,” where a more elegant dress code is encouraged. If you prefer to stay casual on these evenings, you can enjoy a relaxed atmosphere in the Windjammer Café. For women, formal nights call for cocktail dresses, pantsuits, evening gowns, or stylish skirts and blouses. Men are encouraged to pack suits and ties, elegant dress pants, sports jackets, and even tuxedos if they wish.
Fashion don’ts on formal nights include tracksuit trousers, tank tops, swimwear, and cutoff jeans. A smart choice that I’ve taken on many cruises is my sleeveless sequined top that’s gold and I like to pair it with a black skirt or white jeans. The top is so elegant that it adds a bit of elegance to anything I choose from my wardrobe. Plus, it’s neutral and can be paired with almost any color.
For convenience, Royal Caribbean provides valet laundry service for guests, which can be arranged through your stateroom attendant. Though they don’t offer self-service launderettes, laundry and pressing services are available if needed.
Daytime Attire
Daytime dress on a Royal Caribbean cruise is all about ease and comfort, perfect for relaxing by the pool or exploring ports. Feel free to pack casual items like shorts, T-shirts, jumpsuits, swimwear, and light, breathable layers.
Don’t forget flip-flops or comfortable sandals for lounging or strolling along the deck. A light jacket is also recommended if you plan to spend time outdoors during cooler mornings or evenings.
Evening Wear
In the evenings, it’s nice to elevate your style a bit, especially if you’re planning to dine in the Main Dining Room or one of the specialty restaurants. For men, collared shirts paired with dress pants or smart shorts are recommended, while women can opt for dresses, skirts, or chic pantsuits.
As you enjoy the ship’s entertainment in theaters, bars, or lounges, bring along a light sweater or jacket for extra comfort in air-conditioned areas. With a mix of casual, smart, and formal options, Royal Caribbean provides an easygoing yet polished experience that lets you enjoy the best of both relaxation and elegance while on board.
Norwegian Cruise Line Dress Requirements
Norwegian Cruise Line offers a relaxed, “Resort Casual” dress code most evenings. Women are welcome to wear casual dresses, skirts, capris, trousers, and stylish jeans. Men are encouraged to wear jeans, khakis, and polo shirts or casual button-downs.
Besides that, comfortable shoes like flats or loafers are ideal for moving around the ship.
Norwegian’s “Freestyle Cruising” concept allows guests to decide what they’d like to wear each evening. However, some specialty dining venues and select events have more formal dress codes. For a touch of elegance, ladies might opt for cocktail dresses, evening gowns, or pantsuits, while gentlemen can consider suits, ties, or sports jackets.
Certain attire, such as tank tops, swimwear, baseball caps, and cut-off shorts, is generally discouraged in main dining rooms and specialty venues during dinner.
Daytime attire
Norwegian Cruise Line embraces a laid-back vibe during the day, so comfortable, casual attire is recommended for lounging by the pool or going ashore. Shorts, T-shirts, and swimwear are welcome.
Remember to bring flip-flops or casual sandals and perhaps a light jacket for outdoor activities, as it can be cooler in the mornings or late evenings. Keeping your daytime look simple and functional will ensure you can fully enjoy the ship’s activities.
Evening wear
Evening dress on a Norwegian cruise is flexible, with the freedom to either go casual or dress up, depending on your evening plans. If you’re dining in one of the ship’s main dining rooms or specialty restaurants, “Smart Casual” attire is encouraged. Men can opt for collared shirts with dress pants or stylish shorts, while women might prefer elegant blouses, skirts, or casual dresses.
For special dining venues or evening events, consider dressing up a bit with a chic dress or tailored pantsuit for women, and a suit jacket or a dress shirt with slacks for men. Layering is also helpful if you’re planning to enjoy entertainment options in theaters or lounges, as these areas can be air-conditioned.
With Norwegian’s flexible dress code, you’re free to create your own style while enjoying the relaxed yet polished atmosphere that Freestyle Cruising offers. Whether you prefer casual comfort or evening elegance, Norwegian has you covered for a fantastic cruise experience.
MSC Cruise Line Dress Requirements
MSC Cruises maintains a casual and comfortable dress code for most evenings. For women, MSC recommends items such as casual dresses, skirts, trousers, capris, and jeans, while men are encouraged to wear jeans, khakis, or chinos with casual button-downs or polo shirts.
For footwear, flats, loafers, and low heels are ideal, as they provide comfort while moving around the ship.
On select evenings, MSC hosts “Gala Nights,” where formal attire is encouraged in the main dining rooms. For those who prefer to keep things casual on Gala Nights, there are options available at the buffet and other more laid-back dining areas. Women attending the Gala Nights might choose to wear cocktail dresses, evening gowns, or elegant pantsuits, while men can opt for suits, dress shirts, ties, or even tuxedos if they wish.
Fashion don’ts for Gala Nights include flip-flops, tank tops, swimwear, and ripped jeans. Since MSC is a European-based cruise line, and so many of its staff are also of European descent, I believe they are a bit stricter about enforcing the dress code.
Last year I wrote about MSC’s Seashore in how I scored a killer bargain with this cruise line and that I felt like MSC attracts a slightly higher caliber of passengers based on what I saw people wearing at the buffet bars. On that trip, I witnessed a Maitre d’ turn away a couple who were dressed in “leisure ware” that was more like pajamas or loungewear.
Daytime Attire
During the day, MSC Cruises encourages guests to embrace a relaxed, comfortable look perfect for enjoying poolside activities or going ashore. Casual items such as shorts, T-shirts, swimwear, and beach cover-ups are all welcome. You can also bring a beach cover-up dress if you want to stay stylish.
Don’t forget your sandals or flip-flops for lounging by the pool or strolling around the deck. A light sweater or jacket is also recommended if you plan to spend time outdoors in the mornings or evenings when it can be a bit cooler.
Evening Wear
For evening wear, MSC Cruises suggests a “Smart Casual” approach in the main dining areas. Men can choose from collared shirts, dress pants, or smart shorts, while women might prefer stylish skirts, blouses, or dresses.
On Gala Nights, it’s a good idea to elevate your look. Ladies can wear cocktail dresses or elegant skirts with blouses, while gentlemen may consider dress shirts, sports jackets, or suits.
If you’re planning to enjoy the ship’s entertainment, such as theater shows or lounges, bring along a light jacket or wrap for extra comfort in air-conditioned areas.
MSC Cruises offers a balance of casual and formal options, allowing you to enjoy both comfort and elegance on board. With the flexibility to dress up or down, you’re free to create your ideal cruise experience.
Virgin Voyages Dress Requirements
Virgin always thinks “outside of the box.” In a previous blog I wrote about my four-week Mediterranean cruise on the Scarlet Lady, I mentioned how Sir Richard Branson, founder of the Virgin brand, has reimagined cruising and offers a totally unique experience on his ships. Since this is an only-adults cruise line, their motto on dress code is the following according to Virgin’s website: “We throw dress code overboard.”
But in my experience on my Mediterranean cruise, I found the guests were often more affluent than on other cruise lines and they chose to dress appropriately, albeit casually.
Virgin Voyages wants you to feel you’re not obligated to wear a suit, tie, or cocktail dress to dinner. They promote a casual, “come-as-you-are” vacation experience. With 20-plus restaurants, there’s no traditional formal dining room that requires formal dress.
However, what’s cool about this cruise line is that you may choose to wear a nice pair of shorts and a cute top to dinner and you may dine beside someone wearing a tuxedo. But, it’s all OKAY because that’s the vibe this brand wants you to feel.
Cruise Themed Nights
Virgin Voyages promotes creativity with dress because there are two special nights you want to pack accordingly for. First, you definitely want to pack a creative pair of pajamas. The shipwide PJ Party allows you to dance and celebrate on deck with hundreds of others. My friend and I wore matching red PJs that we found on Amazon. Others had on bathrobes, shower caps, and even sexy lingerie.
On Scarlet Night, everyone sports their best red attire and participates in a crazy wild pool party complete with music, dancing, and entertainment. I chose to wear a sequined, red cocktail dress that night but found I was pretty overdressed compared to others.
Since a lot of people are encouraged to jump in the pool during the party, I think I would have been more comfortable with a Virgin-branded red shirt (found in the retail shop onboard) and a pair of white shorts. Put your thinking caps on and dream up ideas that are crazy, wild and comfy for this night!
Themed Clothing: A Fun Trend on Cruise Ships
Be sure and check out your cruise line’s website to see if they host themed nights so you can pack accordingly. For instance, MSC has a “white” night and a 60s/70s night where you can embrace your hippy, flower-power self.
Speaking of themes, I ordered a Jane Fonda-inspired workout outfit to take with me aboard the Virgin Scarlet Lady because I learned they have a VHS throw-back 90s disco aerobics class. Here’s the crazy thing! After getting my costume on, I had to walk a great distance from my cabin to where we were exercising. Not one person blinked an eye at my outrageous outfit. I giggled the whole way there!
How to Respect Local Dress Code when Traveling Internationally
Since ships take you around the world, we must always be sensitive to cultural idiosyncrasies in the countries or islands we visit. Whether it be religious reasons or other set standards, wearing certain styles of clothing or showing areas of the body unclothed is a no-no in many parts of the world. The best advice is to research local customs and pack accordingly.
To be prepared, make sure you include a shawl of some sort and a skirt for travel destinations that require modesty. Men should be prepared to wear a collared shirt and long pants in certain circumstances as well.
For instance, when I took the Grand European Tour aboard the Viking Ve, I visited many churches and learned you cannot tour some if you are wearing a tank top. If you want to visit Vatican City, you are only permitted in the Sistine Chapel, St. Peter’s Basilica, and the Vatican Gardens if you wear the appropriate clothing. No miniskirts, shorts above the knee, sleeveless, and/or low-cut shirts and hats are permitted.
Dress Code for Cruises: Final Thoughts
As you prepare for a cruise, it’s essential to consider the dress code to ensure you enjoy every moment in style and comfort. First and foremost, pack smart casual attire that strikes the perfect balance between relaxed and polished. This not only keeps you comfortable during daytime activities but also allows for seamless transitions into evening events.
When in doubt, err on the side of conservative. Cruise lines often have specific guidelines, and adhering to these will enhance your experience while respecting fellow passengers. To cover all bases, don’t forget to take one dressy outfit for formal nights or special dinners—this is your chance to shine!
Lastly, keep in mind that nights can be chilly out on the open water. A light jacket or wrap can make all the difference as you enjoy those breathtaking sunset views or late-night strolls along the deck. By following these tips, you’ll be well-prepared for a stylish and enjoyable cruise experience!
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